Three of us went out in November a few years ago. We all agreed it was well worth the effort.We travelled Heathrow to Athens with BA, then got an internal flight to Heraklion. A very smooth trip, not too expensive, and a very interesting stop-over in Athens. We picked up a hire car at the airport, which we used most days to explore the area. It really is fantastic off-season.We stayed at Kostas - arranged in advance by email. Other places are available these days to I think. I hope another board member might be able to offer suggestions.Although quiet, we managed to eat and shop with no problem. Sifis stays open, and was quite busy some nights. I believe more places are open these days. Ostraco (downstairs) was open, and very warm on the chilly evenings.It was great to see the bay without sunbeds - and it was still warm by day. I swam most days, the sea was warm, if a little choppy sometimes.I would say - give it a try!

My worst was 5½ hours Heraklion to Plakias. This was many years ago, and if I remember correctly it was with Thompson. Yes, there used to be a choice of tour operator. At one time there were seven different UK companies offering holidays in Plakias.

These days, you don't always get a transfer with Olympic, but we don't use them if they are offered.Taxis are a faster and more convenient option - or get someone from Plakias to pop out and pick you up.

Our normal solution is to hire a car at the airport. If you deduct the cost of taxis each way then it costs little extra to have transport available - to go for dinner in Sellia, or seek out a sheltered beach if it's windy in Plakias.

It was a few years ago, but I enjoyed a holiday in Plakias in early November. The place is very different - quiet and peaceful. There were a few supermarkets open, and several tavernas - including Sifis of course! Ostraco was open, and full of relaxed locals.Best of all for me, the beach was beautiful - no sunbeds, and I enjoyed a swim every day, as the sea was still warm. It did get a little chilly in the evenings, but that didn't worry me!I'd say go for it, and you won't be disappointed.

'On the early morning of May 10th, a lovely town of Plakias in Crete caught fire. The fire completely wiped out a few local tavernas. Luckily, nobody was hurt! However, the tavernas is what keeps the place going, builds economy, and feeds locals after the season is over. Let's help raise money to help these people rebuild!'

So sad to see many of my favourite places ruined. BUT - buildings do not make Plakias what is is, and always will be. Plakias is in a beautiful location, but it's the wonderful, spirited people who make it great. They, like Plakias itself, WILL rise to another challenge and make it even better. My thoughts and best wishes are with everyone in town.As for what we can do to help - what we always do I guess - keep talking about Plakias, keep up with the regular visits and spread our thoughts and best wishes far and wide.

Many forum members will have encountered Lance during their time in Greece. Sadly, I never met him, but we swopped email many times. I was always impressed by his knowledge, gentle manner and downright enthusiasm.Below is the text of a message I received from one of his close friends.

If you did not already know, Lance Chilton died of an acute heart attack in the evening of 30th July, in his 60th year. Hazel and I had a 'phone call from his wife Hilary the following day.

Anyone interested might like to know that he will be cremated at the Mintlyn Crematorium, Kings Lynn on Monday 18th August 2014 at 13.00.

We know that many of his friends from the early 1980's (when he began the Botanical Specials and before he produced the walk booklets as 'Marengo') through to the 2000's will be attending the funeral.

He had been ill with an entirely unrelated condition for some years. This had slowed him down. Also, because of a change of policy by the owners of several guided books, he and Hilary were unable to update their walk booklets alongside their contributions to guides of the Greek islands.

Hilary is proposing to scatter his ashes on the island of Thasos sometime next year.

Lance was a lovely man who gave much pleasure to many people with his kindness, patience and love of plants. His freehand drawing of maps was unsurpassed so that his walking guides actually worked - he had walked them all several times and often in the reverse direction!

Lance, you will be missed - but you've left a legacy that will endure for many years.!

Amazed here too!We've used Sofia many times over the past decade, and never had a bad meal or bad service. Indeed, they are always friendly and helpful.I can only imagine that one of the waiters was having a bad day during your visit Colin and Sandra.